BLM Acquires Casper Battle Site

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — The U.S. Bureau of Land Management has purchased about a square mile of land on the North Platte River outside Casper with historic significance and recreational potential.

The Casper Star-Tribune reported Saturday the land was the scene of skirmishes in the 1865 Battle of the Red Buttes, which killed the city's namesake, Army 2nd Lt. Caspar Collins.

The reconstructed Fort Caspar is named for him as well.

The land also has 1.5 miles of riverfront on a section of the North Platte prized for trout fishing.

The bureau purchased the site last year. Most had belonged to a ranch, and a local Shrine Club had owned a small portion. The cost wasn't immediately available.

The bureau says it will consult with the public on how it will be used. Possibilities include wilderness, trails and infrastructure for wheelchair accessibility.